How Event Planners Discover and Select Speakers: A Comprehensive Guide
Organizing a successful event requires a well-thought-out plan, including finding and selecting the right speakers. This guide provides tips and strategies for event planners to identify and engage exceptional presenters who can captivate and inspire their audience.
1. Utilize Specialized Agencies
Some companies dedicate themselves to professional speaker training and connecting you with seasoned public speakers. One outstanding option is the Keynote Speaker agency, which offers access to over 5000 expert speakers across various fields such as business, marketing, innovation, education, technology, inspiration, religion, finance, health, entertainment, and sports. These top professionals provide outstanding presentations that are sure to excite and educate your audience, making them a valuable resource for any event.
2. Leverage Your LinkedIn Network
LinkedIn is one of the most prominent social networks, and it is packed with specialists. By reviewing profiles, joining groups, and reading the material of your contacts, you can discover potential speakers for your next event. Many of these experts are often eager to accept speaking opportunities. This network can be a rich source of highly qualified and enthusiastic speakers.
3. Engage with Local Chamber of Commerce
Business owners frequently participate in local Chambers of Commerce to raise awareness of their brand or business within their community. These organizations can be a valuable resource for finding speakers. Engaging with a local Chamber of Commerce can lead you to business leaders and professionals who are knowledgeable and motivated to contribute to your event. Many members regularly look for new speaking opportunities and may be eager to add a new platform to their speaking repertoire.
4. Explore Niche Professional Organizations
Professionals from any field can join industry associations to further their knowledge and advance their careers. Members of these organizations often join with the goal of networking and finding new opportunities. Reaching out to these organizations can help you identify qualified speakers who are well-versed in your event's specific theme or topic. Contacting such organizations can provide you with a list of potential speakers who can add depth and credibility to your event.
5. Participate in Online Forums
Online forums are virtual communities where individuals can exchange information and ideas. By participating in these forums, you can not only learn and get your questions answered but also discover potential speakers for your upcoming event. For example, a forum dedicated to event planning or a niche-specific community can provide valuable insights and introductions to talented speakers. Engaging in online discussions can help you build a personal connection with a potential speaker and gauge their suitability for your event.
6. Utilize Your Personal Network
Colleagues or friends might have attended relevant conferences or community events and can recommend a guest speaker they have observed directly. Leveraging your existing network can provide you with first-hand perspectives and personal endorsements. This approach can be particularly effective as the referred speaker can provide qualitative feedback on their experience and effectiveness as a presenter.
By employing these strategies, event planners can effectively discover and select speakers who will enhance the quality and impact of their events. Remember, the key to a successful event lies in finding the right speakers who can engage and inspire your audience.